AZUDAS OF LARMAHUE: THE RESCUE OF WATER RESOURCES IN THE MIDDLE OF A FIELD IN FULL VALLEY UPLAND CACHAPOAL, SIXTH REGION

Abstract

Under FONDECYT Research No. 1120114, this document aims at describing water wheels located in Larmahue and points to the need for efficient water use. Ultimately, it is about irrigating fertile farmlands in part of the Cachapoal valley. Challenged from time immemorial, human inventiveness has created actual works of art to cope with harsh conditions. Water wheels are a proof of this inventiveness, designed and built for efficient farmland irrigation. These wheels have felt the impact of inevitable natural disasters, but also inexcusable human harm expressed in carelessness and neglect. Damages to tangible assets inevitably impact intangible dimensions and with it, natural landscapes.